7 Benefits of Being Physically Active

Do you want to feel like you are healthy and energetic? Maybe even live a longer, healthier life? Regardless of your age, sex, or physical ability, you can improve the quality of your life by becoming physically active. Check out these seven benefits of remaining physically active.

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Physical activity will help to improve your mood. Many people find that walking, jogging, or working out after a stressful day helps to calm their moods.

When you exercise, chemicals in your brain are stimulated, causing you to feel both happier and more relaxed. Your confidence and your self-esteem should also improve when you exercise on a regular basis because you will feel better about the improved shape of your body. There is also evidence to suggest that regular physical activity can help to prevent depression.

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Chronic diseases such as heart disease and osteoporosis can be controlled through physical activity. And, high blood pressure can be dramatically reduced (and sometimes even eliminated) if you will develop a routine of exercising on a regular basis. Other issues such as the build-up of plaque in your arteries can be reduced by exercising as you increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and decrease triglycerides.

Even Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and certain types of cancer can be prevented by remaining physically active.

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You can manage your weight through regular physical activity. We all know that physical activities such as walking or jogging will move us toward our health goals faster than spending time watching TV.

Engaging in physical activities causes our bodies to burn calories. We lose weight when we burn more calories than we consume. And, more intense activities burn more calories.

You need to find time to exercise on a regular basis. Like many people, I go to the gym every day for my structured workout routine. However, even if you do not go to a gym or have a structured routine, there are several things you can do every day to increase the number of calories you burn. Instead of riding the elevator, walk up the stairs. Instead of sitting during breaks, walk around the building. Incorporate some type of activity while you watch TV. If you look for ways to burn extra calories every day, you’ll find them.

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Boost your energy level by exercising. You will be able to breathe easier when you exercise on a regular basis because your tissues will be supplied with more oxygen and nutrients. Your entire cardiovascular system will work more efficiently when you are physically active on a regular basis. The result? You will discover that you have more energy because your heart and your lungs will be performing more efficiently.

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You will be able to sleep better when you perform a regular exercise routine or stay physically active. And, your concentration, your productivity, and your mood will all improve when you sleep well. However, many people have found that exercising at least several hours prior to bedtime works better than exercising close to bedtime. Since exercising tends to energize your body, you may find it challenging to fall asleep immediately after your workout.

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OK, here it is… you might notice a rather dramatic improvement in your sex life once you get on a regular program of exercise. Have you ever been too tired to enjoy sex? Has physical intimacy ever been awkward because you were out of shape?

Well, it happens. So, you can understand why feeling energized and feeling better about your physical appearance might improve your sex life. Some women report enhanced arousal and some men report fewer erectile dysfunction issues when they are physically active on a regular basis.

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Find an exercise or physical activity you like… then do it! Even better if it’s fun and you can involve other family members or friends. If you get up and start moving around, you will find indoor and/or outdoor activities that not only burn calories but are also fun.

Move around. Develop a routine. Become physically active. Today. You can do it!